The One Crew: The Legacy of A Shanghai Crew's Reverence for the Road
In January 2013, at the dawn of the run crew movement in China, The One Crew (TOC) was born in the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. As one of the city's pioneering crews, they were a major force in shaping the local running culture. Although they are no longer active, their story remains a powerful chapter in the history of the Shanghai running scene, characterized by a deep and thoughtful approach to the sport and a belief in the lasting connections it fosters.
A Philosophy of Persistence and Gratitude
The philosophy of The One Crew was unique and profound. They believed that running as a sport has a deep "connection of gratitude and reverence toward nature," encouraging a more mindful and appreciative approach to movement. This was complemented by their beautiful motto, "As long as we persist in the road, we can meet sooner or later," which speaks to the enduring bonds of friendship that are forged through the shared experience of running, bonds that last even if the crew itself does not.
The culture of The One Crew was likely one of dedication and exploration. As a "Crush Crew," they embraced the challenge of the run, but their reverence for nature suggests that their activities were centered on finding and appreciating the beautiful running spots within and around their massive city. They were a community that understood the power of both the physical and the spiritual aspects of running.
While The One Crew is no longer running together, their legacy lives on in the vibrant scene they helped to create. Their story of persistence and their belief in the power of running to connect people remains an inspiration to the thousands of runners who now take to the streets of Shanghai every day.
The Shanghai Running Scene
As pioneers, The One Crew helped pave the way for a diverse and energetic running scene in Shanghai. The city is now home to a multitude of other crews, including the stylish and performance-focused Black Toes Running Team. The city also boasts massive free fitness communities, such as FitFam Shanghai, which organizes large-scale workouts, and social groups like RunnersHai. This thriving ecosystem is a testament to the strong foundation that the original crews helped to build.
The city of Shanghai is a global metropolis with a rich history and a futuristic skyline. It is a true runner's paradise, offering a vast network of modern roads, beautiful parks, and stunning waterfronts. A favorite for the entire running community is the world-famous Bund, a waterfront area that offers breathtaking views of the Pudong skyline. For a green escape, the vast Century Park and the charming Fuxing Park provide beautiful and serene environments for a run. The premier racing event in the city is the Shanghai International Marathon, held in the autumn, which attracts a massive international field to its fast course.
